Craniofacial Fellowship Applicant Perceptions of Virtual Interviews.
Joshua Yoon1,2, Judy Pan3, Melanie Major3
1Division of Plastic, Reconstructive, & Maxillofacial Surgery, R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center, Baltimore, MD.
The Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
|July 22, 2022
Summary
Virtual interviews for craniofacial surgery fellowships proved beneficial, with applicants appreciating cost savings, scheduling ease, and increased interview opportunities. Most now prefer virtual or hybrid formats, recommending them for future cycles.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Surgical Fellowships
- Craniofacial Surgery
Background:
- The 2021 craniofacial fellowship interviews were conducted virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- This study examines applicant perceptions of the virtual interview process.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess craniofacial fellowship applicant experiences and perceptions of the virtual interview format.
- To identify the perceived strengths and weaknesses of virtual interviews compared to traditional in-person formats.
Main Methods:
- A survey study involving 35 questions was approved by an institutional review board.
- Surveys were distributed to craniofacial fellowship applicants participating in the match overseen by the American Society of Craniofacial Surgeons (ASCFS).
Main Results:
- Ten surveys were completed (48% response rate); applicants averaged 12.7 interviews.
- 90% initially preferred in-person interviews, but only 10% preferred them post-cycle; 70% preferred virtual-only.
- Key strengths cited were cost (100%), scheduling ease (90%), and increased interview participation (70%).
Conclusions:
- Virtual interviews offer significant advantages in cost, scheduling, and accessibility for craniofacial fellowship applicants.
- The majority of applicants now favor virtual or hybrid formats and recommend them for future recruitment cycles.
- Applicant self-advocacy was not negatively impacted by the virtual format.
